Article by Kimberly Boyd
Mansfield Little League Ball Association held their annual end of the year ball party for kids, parents and coaches at the Johnny Cake Ball fields on Saturday, June 30th.
Rich Patterson, the League President, along with help from Amanda and Marty Wison, grilled burgers and hotdogs for everyone attending. Waterslides were one of many kid’s favorites as well as the dunk booth for kids to have the chance to dunk their favorite coach!
The Mansfield Little League Ball Associate said, “We want to thank all the parents and coaches for a great year and are looking forward to next season!”
MLLBA Season Ends with Party
5K Fun Run Successful for Community and Competitors
Article by Kimberly Boyd
Mansfield Mayor, Mike Gipson was happy to host the 1st Annual 5k & Fun Run on Saturday, June 30th.
Mansfield had over thirty people in attendance as supporters and runners. Fifteen runners took the starting line varying from Mansfield Junior High runners, Mansfield Alumni and citizens as well as even the Mayor’s wife, Karen Gipson.
In the beginning of the race, the runners stayed close in time, but in the end, Megan Rose, Mansfield Cross Country Star and Alumni, took the lead, winning and finishing with a 23:43 time, and first place. Close behind, Resident Press’ Representative, Brandy Jeffrey took second with a finishing time of 26:15, and closing in third was Faith Rainwater, Mansfield’s Junior High Cross Country runner, with 29:52 as her time.
Trent Hayslip, grilled pancakes for runners and supporters at the finishing line per Mayor Gipson’s request as a treat for all those who came out to enjoy the run. Amanda and Marty Wilson helped with registration, set up and assisted with time keeping for the runners, and a special thank you to Coach Mackey for allowing Mansfield to use the time keeping machine to keep track of official times of each runner.
Also, a special thanks to Mansfield First Baptist and Today’s Bank of Mansfield for providing water stations along the way for the runners, and thank you to the Mansfield Police and Fire Department for directing traffic and runners along the route. All proceeds from the race went to supporting the Mansfield Fire Department.
Final results and times:
1. Megan Rose 23:43
2. Brandy Jeffrey 26:15
3. Faith Rainwater 29:52
4. Hope Rainwater 35:36
5. Shelby Cole 35:38
6. Natalie Allison 35: 39
7. Miranda Allison 35:56
8. Karen Gipson 40:17 (Fun Run)
9. Jordan Martin 40:58
10. Susan Martin 40:59
11. Penny Taylor 44:05
12. Karen Vorabouth 46:52
13. Delilah McKusker 52:58
14. Britany Moore 53:02
15. Brittany Moore 53:06
Photos courtesy of Olivia Boyd
Summer Cross Country Sessions Beginning Soon
Most of the members of this Senior High XC division (above image) attended summer sessions in preparation for their upcoming season. Five of the members ended as All-Star Athletes in November after beginning team training sessions in July before their season began.
Success seems to follow the Mansfield High School cross country team. Just this past year, the program won yet another conference championship. It sent five runners to the River Valley All-Star race, had three distance athletes recruited by colleges, and had one individual champion sign to run at the university level next fall.
According to the coach, all this has can be directly traced back to the dedicated athletes that put forth extra individual and team effort to achieve. Specifically, running when it’s hot, inconvenient, or on an independent schedule molds the resilience needed for a highly touted program.
“That’s why we do the summer running sessions,” Mansfield cross country coach John Mackey stated. “We have kids that want success. We have kids that want to move on to the next level. Success stories can unfold on any given day. So, we meet early as a team in preparation for the fall season. It gives us a chance to continue the individual schedules many have followed on their own since school got out.”
The Tiger mentor explained that new and old team members have the opportunity to prep for next season with team training sessions through the month of July. Starting on Monday, July 9 and running through the first week of August, group members can meet for workouts on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Thursdays in the evening. Sessions begin at 7:30 PM at the Mansfield City Lake and last until pre-planned routines based upon individual needs are complete.
“In less than 30 minutes for the beginners, and no more than a hour for the veterans, we can get much accomplished,” Mackey informed. “We have a plan for the beginners all the way up to the college bound athlete. It’s a fun, relaxed atmosphere that caters toward team chemistry.”
Athletes were given individual workouts that they could follow beginning May 27. That calendar runs through August 11, the week before school starts. Those individual routines will continue even through the July group sessions will come into focus.
“It’s just easier to run with someone,” Mackey expressed. “Some of our athletes are already meeting up for their independent runs. We even had some run in the Mayor’s 5K race. The time together is just motivating. Besides, the team sessions are in the comfort of shade trees down by the lake with a breeze.”
At the end of the 4-week long group sessions, the team plans a reward trip to the Alma Aquatic Park on August 3. Runners that complete the required number of workouts or pass the endurance test will be invited to the family friendly day out.
“The runners that meet expectations we enjoy all the amenities of the water park plus a cookout with family and friends,” the coach announced. “It was so much fun last year. I think our kids really enjoyed it, and are looking forward to another reward trip this summer.”
The coach was quick to publicize that first time runners are welcome to training sessions so long as they have a sports physical. That includes any Mansfield boy or girl that will be in the seventh through twelfth grade next school year.
“We had a first time senior last season,” coach explained. “She started the summer running a half mile. By the end of the summer, she could complete a 3 mile run. By the end of the season, she made the all-star team and some small colleges interested in her athletic abilities. I’d encourage anyone to give it a try.”
Information about the Mansfield cross country workouts can be found on the school website. Also, Coach Mackey can be contacted directly through his school email address at [email protected].
Hackett’s Bell Goes All-State
2018 Hackett graduate, Cassie Bell recently played in the AAA All-State basketball game in Conway this past Saturday with a strong support system back home in Hornet territory.
Bell had a stellar high career with a Senior season consisting of 15.2 points per game, 77% free throws, 172 offensive rebounds, and 156 defensive rebounds, just to name a few.
We’d like to congratulate Cassie on her accomplishments on and off the court. Go Hornets!
ARDOT Warns Drivers of Bridgework Near Hackett
Arkansas Department of Transportation has begun work on James Fork Bridge, on Highway 45 South of Hackett.
ARDOT Crewleader Julie Morton advised drivers via social media to be aware of stoplights placed in that area in lieu of flaggers. Both lanes will be open over the weekend and also on July 4.
Work is scheduled to continue in that area over the next few weeks.
Fireworks Ordinances: What You Need to Know
Each municipality in Sebastian, Scott, Logan and Franklin Counties has their own ordinances in place regarding fireworks. We have compiled a list of regulations set forth in our area.
- Waldron – July 4 allowed unless PD is called for nuisance
- Greenwood – July 3, 4 until midnight
- Lavaca – July 4, until 11 p.m.
- Bonanza – July 1-5, 8 a.m. till 11 p.m.
- Hackett – July 4, 8 a.m. – 11 p.m.
- Hartford – July 1-4, until midnight
- Mansfield – July 3, 4, 5, until 11:59 p.m.
- Huntington – July 1-10, Sunday – Thursday: 8 a.m. – 10 p.m.; Friday – Saturday: 8 a.m. – midnight; July 4: 8 a.m. – 1 a.m.
- Central City – NO ORDINANCE
- Booneville – July 4, 11 a.m. – 10:30 p.m. Excludes downtown area between 1st Street on the south to 5th Street on the north, Kennedy Avenue on the west and McCandless Avenue on the east (a square block from the library to the post office and First Baptist to Casey’s building).
- Paris – NOT ALLOWED IN THE CITY LIMITS
- Magazine – July 1-5, 8 a.m. – 11 p.m – bottle rockets prohibited except for the Fourth of July
- Charleston – Ordinance 90-4: “It shall be unlawful for any person, firm or corporation to cause, permit or allow any unnecessary loud, obnoxious and annoying sound to be emitted from any source within their control.”
In addition to obeying the laws set forth by the city, remember to be safe this Fourth of July. First, by making sure a responsible adult supervises all firework activities. This person should be aware of the type of fireworks they are using and follow the cautionary labels. Children should never be allowed to ignite fireworks, they should always be supervised by an adult. Alcohol and fireworks do not mix, it impairs your judgement. Lastly, make sure you put out spent or even “dud” fireworks. It’s recommended that you have buckets of water or water hose on hand as a precautionary measure. Multiple injuries occur each year due to firework accidents.
Pets, let’s not forget the safety of our pets! It’s not a good idea to bring pets to community fireworks events. If you are setting them off at home, be sure your pet is inside and in a safe area. Remember they can hear amplified sounds, and it can be terrifying to pets. Make sure your pet has an I.D. tag in case they run away. Shelters always see an influx in intake animals following the holiday.
We at Resident News wish you a happy and safe Independence Day.
Mansfield Chamber and VFD to Host Annual Fireworks Display
By Tammy Moore Teague
The Mansfield Chamber of Commence is teaming up with the Volunteer Fire Department to host the annual Fourth of July Fireworks display. The event is slated to take place on June 30, at 5 p.m.
The VFD will be selling hamburgers and hot dogs. They will also hold a 50/50 raffle drawing, with ticket costs at $1 for one, or 6 for $5.
The fireworks show is set to begin at dark, approximately 9 p.m. Donations will be accepted for those who want to come out and enjoy the show. Bring a chair and the family, enjoy a visit with community members and celebrate our FREEDOM!
Move Over, It’s the Law!
By Tammy Moore Teague
When most drivers hear a siren or see emergency vehicle lights, pull off to the side of the road, allowing them to pass. Its not only a courtesy, it’s the law. Surprisingly, however, there are a number of drivers who do not. This is a dangerous situation for not only the driver, but also for emergency responders and those whom they are responding to.
“It’s definitely a problem,” said Mansfield Fire Chief Stephen Haysmer. Fire crews, EMS workers and law enforcement all encounter drivers, who either don’t move over allowing them to pass, or slam their breaks on in a panic trying to stop. With a fire truck for example, they have hundreds of gallons of water in their truck, whenever you slam on the breaks in front of them, they have to slam on their breaks. That water will keep pushing on the truck, that keeps them from being able to stop as quickly as a small car or truck.
Haysmer said another issue they face is the public stopping or trying to get a look at what’s going on when they are on scene. He said it keeps them from doing their job and creates further hazards. If drivers are busy looking at an accident or house fire, they aren’t paying attention to the road.
Lastly, remember not to tailgate emergency vehicles. They are carrying precious cargo, our heroes and often times a loved one in distress. These laws are designed for both the public and responders safety. Disregarding them can cost up to $400 in fines, or worse a life.
First Responder Helps Save Property
Article by Darrell Spells
With the summer months upon us nothing can cool you off better than a quick trip to the lake in your boat.
Thanks to the efforts of Sugarloaf First Responder Pam Carter, her sister’s family can still do that.
Pam heard the call of a fire on Mt. Zion road in Hackett. Carter recognized the address and rushed to the scene ahead of Hackett Fire Department who were in route.
When Carter arrived, she saw the flames getting close to the boat. Carter began stomping the fire out with her boot as additional firefighters arrived on scene.
Carter is a shining example of the dedication of volunteer fire departments in our area. These men and women answer the call at all hours of the night and day.
The majority of them also have full time jobs. Thanks to Pam Carter of Sugarloaf Fire and Hackett Fire Department for the rapid response and continued dedication to the citizens of Sebastian County.
Fireworks Laws: What You Need to Know
By Tammy Moore Teague
Each municipality in Sebastian County has its own ordinances in place regarding fireworks. We have compiled a list of regulations set forth in our area.
- Mansfield – NO fireworks within the city limits
- Hackett – 8 a.m. – 11 p.m. on July 4
- Hartford – July 2 – July 5 from 10 a.m. – 12 a.m.
- Waldron – NO fireworks within the city limits
- Huntington – July 1-10 Sunday through Thursday 8 a.m.-10 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 8 a.m.-midnight on July 4 – 8 a.m.-1 a.m. on July 5
In addition to obeying the laws set forth by the city, remember to be safe this Fourth of July. First, by making sure a responsible adult supervises all firework activities. This person should be aware of the type of fireworks they are using and follow the cautionary labels. Children should never be allowed to ignite fireworks, they should always be supervised by an adult. Alcohol and fireworks do not mix, it impairs your judgment. Lastly, make sure you put out spent or even “dud” fireworks. It’s recommended that you have buckets of water or water hose on hand as a precautionary measure. Multiple injuries occur each year due to firework accidents.
Pets, let’s not forget the safety of our pets! It’s not a good idea to bring pets to community fireworks events. If you are setting them off at home, be sure your pet is inside and in a safe area. Remember they can hear amplified sounds, and it can be terrifying to pets. Make sure your pet has an I.D. tag in case they run away. Shelters always see an influx in intake animals following the holiday.
We at Resident Press wish you a happy and safe Independence Day. A special thanks to all our servicemen and women who make this day possible!